Yosemite: 4 Mile Trail Views

There were many views of the valley along the trail. It was from this vantage point that I could really grasp the full height of Yosemite Falls.

The Majestic Yosemite Hotel (Ahwanee Lodge) is to the right of the meadow. To the left is Indian Canyon and to the right, Royal Arches. North Dome is at the upper right. North Dome is 7525 feet, about the same height as we were.

Yosemite: Base of Yosemite Falls Trail

We took an early evening hike along the loop that goes to the base of Lower Yosemite Falls. It was great to get close to the falls, and get wet too. This is the only place, I think, where one can see the upper and lower parts of the falls with such a dramatic view.

The noise at the base of the falls was amazing.

Yosemite: Yosemite Falls

Part of the allure of the valley for photographers is that it is so photogenic. Every meadow, like this one across Southside Drive from the Chapel, offers amazing views. The thunder from the falls could be heard all over the valley.

Yosemite: Yosemite Falls

Our next view of the falls was from Sentinel Meadows, our first glimpse of the lower falls. I was beginning to realize that the valley had many great scenes for photographers.

Yosemite: Yosemite Falls

We had out first view of Yosemite Falls from the Cathedral Beach area. The Sierras had a good snowfall in the winter, 86% of normal, so the falls were roaring. There was much ground water making for nice reflections.